U.S. patent application number 13/939438 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-16 for surveillance system and associated methods of use.
The applicant listed for this patent is Robert Sebastian Dietl. Invention is credited to Robert Sebastian Dietl.
Application Number | 20140015981 13/939438 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49913681 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140015981 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dietl; Robert Sebastian |
January 16, 2014 |
Surveillance System And Associated Methods of Use
Abstract
A remote observation or surveillance device for simultaneous 360
degree imaging comprising a housing defining an internal chamber
wherein each side wall includes a viewing window, a means for
mounting having a slot, configuration of slots, track or
combination thereof, a plurality of camera mounting brackets
slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting means through
the slot or track, each bracket being adjustably affixed to a
camera, wherein the cameras are configured to provide simultaneous
360 degree live or recorded imaging. The cameras can be configured
to provide any combination of viewing angles and degrees of
magnification or zoom. The device may also comprise a processor or
server in operable communication with the cameras, which is
configured to control the cameras and/or store and archive video,
imaging, and/or audio data.
Inventors: |
Dietl; Robert Sebastian;
(Warren, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dietl; Robert Sebastian |
Warren |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49913681 |
Appl. No.: |
13/939438 |
Filed: |
July 11, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61670425 |
Jul 11, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
348/159 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 5/2251 20130101;
H04N 5/2252 20130101; H04N 7/181 20130101; G08B 13/19619 20130101;
G08B 13/19632 20130101; H04N 5/23206 20130101; H04N 5/247 20130101;
H04N 7/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/159 |
International
Class: |
H04N 7/18 20060101
H04N007/18 |
Claims
1. A device for surveillance imaging approximately 360 degrees
comprising: a housing defining an internal chamber and including a
viewing window on each side wall, wherein the internal chamber of
the housing comprises, (a) a means for mounting an electronic
component, wherein the mounting means includes a slot,
configuration of slots, track or combination thereof; (b) a
plurality of camera mounting brackets comprising one end having a
camera mount configured to adjustably affix a camera, and another
end configured to be slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the
mounting means through the slot or configuration of slots in the
mounting means; and (c) a camera adjustably affixed to each bracket
camera mount, wherein the cameras are configured to allow
approximately 360 degree viewing or imaging simultaneously.
2. The device of claim 1, further comprising at least one of a
computer processor or server, a microphone, a loud speaker, a
projector, a local area network (LAN) connection, a wireless local
area network (WLAN) connection, a wi-fi internet transmitter, a
digital video recorder, a power panel, a patch panel, a climate
control unit or a combination thereof.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein the processor or server is
configured to capture and/or store imaging data from the
cameras.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the mounting means comprises at
least one of a mounting platform having a top surface and a bottom
surface and at least one slot or configuration of slots extending
therethrough; a rail configured to form a slot, configuration of
slots or track; a plurality of rails configured to form a slot,
configuration of slots or track; or a combination of thereof.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein the mounting platform is affixed
within the housing in a substantially horizontal plane near the top
of the viewing window, near the bottom of the viewing window or
both.
6. The device of claim 5, wherein the housing comprises two
mounting platforms, each affixed within the housing in a
substantially horizontal plane, wherein the mounting platforms
define three compartments within the internal chamber of the
housing.
7. The device of claim 1, comprising at least one of an analog
camera, a digital camera or a combination thereof.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing has at least three
side walls, each comprising a viewing window
9. The device of claim 7, wherein the viewing window in the side
walls is of a sufficient size to allow viewing of approximately 360
degrees.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing is cylindrical, and
wherein the side wall comprises a viewing window sufficient to
provide for 360 degree imaging.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein the camera mounting bracket
comprises a shaft which extends through the slot in the mounting
platform, and is received by a fastener configured to rest on a
surface of the means for mounting a camera mounting bracket, and to
movably affix the camera in a position along the slot in the
mounting platform.
12. The device of claim 4, wherein the slots in the mounting
platform are in an "I-I-I" configuration as shown in FIGS. 12 and
13.
13. The device of claim 11, wherein the fastener is configured to
be reversibly loosened and tightened, wherein when loosened the
camera mounting bracket can be slid along the length of the slot in
the mounting platform, and when tightened the camera is secured
into position.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the mounting platform is affixed
in the internal chamber of the housing near the top of the viewing
window, near the bottom of the viewing window or both.
15. The device of claim 14, wherein the mounting platform is
affixed near the top of the viewing window within the housing.
16. The device of claim 14, wherein the mounting platform is
secured within the housing at a height sufficient to align the
viewing windows with the viewing angle of the cameras.
17. The device of claim 14, wherein the camera mounting brackets
are slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform
near the top of the viewing window of the housing, near the bottom
of the viewing window of the housing or both.
18. The device of claim 1, further comprising a door hingely
connected a side wall.
19. An integrated 360 degree surveillance system comprising the
device of claim 1, a computer processor or server, a wireless
internet transmitter, and a remote display, wherein the cameras
capture video or images simultaneously from substantially 360
degrees of viewing, the processor or server comprises a program or
application configured to control camera function and store video
or image data, and wherein the internet transmitter transmits the
video or image data information to a remote display.
20. A device for surveillance imaging approximately 360 degrees
comprising: a housing defining an internal chamber and including a
viewing window on each side wall, wherein the internal chamber of
the housing comprises, (a) a mounting platform comprising a slot or
configuration of slots extending therethrough, wherein the mounting
platform is affixed near the top of the viewing window, near the
bottom of the viewing window or both; (b) a plurality of camera
mounting brackets comprising one end having a camera mount
configured to adjustably affix a camera, and another end configured
to be slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform
through the slot or configuration of slots in the mounting
platform; (c) a camera adjustably affixed to each bracket camera
mount, wherein the cameras are configured to provide for
approximately 360 degree viewing or imaging simultaneously; and (d)
a computer processor or server configured to receive, store and
archive video and imaging data from the cameras.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/670,425
filed Jul. 11, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This application relates to video surveillance systems and
in particular to self-contained surveillance systems having a
camera array configured to allow 360.degree. live remote
monitoring, and video archiving features.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The use of video surveillance as a means for monitoring
property, improving security, deterring crime, and providing
evidence continues to expand in both public and private settings.
For example, with budgetary issues plaguing municipalities and
companies in the private sector alike, the implementation of video
surveillance is especially attractive as an economical alternative
that provides for enhanced security at a fraction of the cost of
hiring security personnel. In addition, video surveillance systems
provide the user with flexibility should the conditions or area to
be monitored change over time.
[0004] However, conventional video surveillance systems suffer from
a number of shortcomings. For example, in many instances
conventional video surveillance systems require the installation of
many individual cameras in various positions just to survey or
monitor an area of interest. Of course, the installation of
multiple cameras is associated with increased upfront costs, as
well as additional maintenance and monitoring costs. Systems based
on multiple single camera units can also require multiple devices
for capturing and recording or saving the image data, further
increasing the costs. Even in situations where the camera
automatically pans or tilts, single camera systems inevitably leave
certain areas unmonitored for periods of time, which can undermine
their effectiveness in the first instance. Single camera systems
also frequently lack the ability to monitor the same area using
multiple types of imaging platforms, e.g., analog, digital,
infrared, or thermal imaging, and/or the lack the ability to
monitor the same area using varying degrees of zoom.
[0005] Currently available devices that include or house multiple
cameras similarly suffer from a number of well-known limitations.
For example, many multi-camera devices are limited in the number of
cameras and/or camera types that can be utilized with the system.
Also, existing surveillance devices typically do not provide for
the ability to monitor a single field of view using multiple
imaging platforms, unless additional surveillance units are
installed to provide more complete coverage. Furthermore, typical
multi-camera devices have a relatively limited number of potential
camera configurations available, which also means that additional
units or cameras must be placed in other areas to achieve complete
coverage, further increasing deployment and monitoring costs.
Significantly, the vast majority of multi-camera devices are
designed to be mounted from a vertical wall or other surface by
affixing a side wall of the device directly to the vertical
surface. As such, these devices inherently lack the ability to
survey 360 degrees. Also, because of their design, many
multi-camera devices do not have sufficient capacity to store the
video or image data and require direct cabling to monitoring
equipment, which requires additional time and resources to
deploy.
[0006] As such, there exists an ongoing need in the art for video
or imaging surveillance devices that address and/or overcome one or
more of the above shortfalls. For example, it would be highly
desirable to obtain and deploy a single device capable of
monitoring a 360 degree area simultaneously using one or more
imaging types, angles, and degrees of magnification. It would also
be desirable to have a device that had the capacity to store and/or
transmit wirelessly the video or imaging data to a remote user.
Further still, it is desirable to have a device that offers
significant flexibility in the number and configuration of cameras
such that the same device could be deployed in a variety of
settings while retaining its ability to provide 360 degree
surveillance coverage.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present description provides a self-contained video
surveillance device and related system having a video and/or
imaging camera array configured to allow approximately 360 degree
live remote monitoring and video and imaging archiving. The devices
and systems as described herein provide increased coverage as
compared to other video surveillance applications, provide ample
video or image storage capacity, allow for diversity and
flexibility in the types of imaging and camera array configuration;
provide for remote monitoring and control, and are integrated so
that it is convenient to install and maintain.
[0008] Thus, in one aspect the description provides a device for
approximately 360 degree surveillance imaging comprising a housing
defining an internal chamber and including a viewing window on each
side wall, wherein the internal chamber of the housing comprises,
(a) a means for mounting, wherein the means includes a slot,
configuration of slots, track or combination thereof; (b) a
plurality of camera mounting brackets comprising one end having a
camera mount configured to adjustably affix a camera, and another
end configured to be slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the
mounting platform through the slot or configuration of slots in the
mounting platform; and (c) a camera adjustably affixed to each
bracket camera mount, wherein the cameras are configured to provide
for substantially 360 degree viewing or imaging simultaneously.
[0009] In any of the embodiments as taught or described herein, the
housing may be of any desired size or shape, e.g., triangular,
square or rectangular or cylindrical. In certain preferred
embodiments, the housing is approximately rectangular in shape
(i.e., a bottom surface, four side walls, and a top surface). In a
preferred embodiment, the housing further comprises a door hingely
connected a side wall, wherein the door has an open position and a
closed position. In certain embodiments, the door further comprises
a latch or a lock for securing the door closed.
[0010] In any of the embodiments as taught or described herein, the
viewing window comprises an opening in a side wall. In a preferred
embodiment, the viewing window has dimensions sufficient to provide
for camera imaging in 360 degrees. In an additional embodiment, the
viewing widow has a width that is approximately the same length as
the side wall. In certain embodiments, e.g., wherein the housing is
cylindrical, the side wall comprises a viewing window that extends
in a horizontal plane approximately the entire circumference of the
cylinder.
[0011] In certain embodiments, the viewing window also comprises a
transparent pane covering the opening such that light, and
therefore, video or image data can still be captured by the cameras
but the internal components are substantially protected from the
outside environment. In certain embodiments, the transparent pane
is formed of a material such as glass or plastic, e.g., Plexiglas,
polycarbonate, polyacrylic, polyvinyl, polystyrene or other durable
polymeric material, aluminum oxynitride, spinel or a combination
thereof. In additional embodiments, the transparent pane is tinted
to reduce glare, is comprised of a non-glare transparent material,
comprised of auto-tinting glass or a combination thereof. In
certain additional embodiments, the transparent pane is affixed at
an acute angle (relative to the vertical plane of the side wall) to
facilitate downward camera angles.
[0012] In additional embodiments, the housing also comprises one or
more light-impenetrable or opaque vertical partitions or curtains
separating one side from the another thereby reducing or preventing
the glare or light entering from one side of the housing from
interfering with cameras on the other side of the partition within
the housing.
[0013] In any of the embodiments as taught or described herein,
means for mounting comprises one or more mounting platforms. The
mounting platform includes a top surface and a bottom surface, and
includes a slot or configuration of slots extending therethrough.
The mounting platform may be of any desired shape. However, as
would be recognized by the skilled artisan, the shape of the
mounting platform will in most cases be dictated by the shape of
the housing, itself, such that the mounting platform fits neatly
within the internal chamber of the housing. In certain embodiments,
the mounting platform is affixed within the housing in a
substantially horizontal plane near the top of the housing, near
the bottom of the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the side
panels of the housing comprise slots extending horizontally along
the inward facing surface of the side wall configured to receive
the mounting platform and secure it in place.
[0014] In another embodiment, the means for mounting comprises a
rail or plurality of rails forming a slot, configuration of slots
or a track therebetween, wherein the rails are secured or affixed
to the side walls of the housing. In another embodiment, the
housing comprising a plurality of rails and further comprises a
plurality of camera mounting brackets slidably and/or adjustably
affixed to the rails. In another embodiment, the housing comprises
both a mounting platform and a plurality of rails for slidably
and/or adjustably affixing a plurality of camera mounting
brackets.
[0015] In an additional embodiment, the housing comprises a cooling
unit, e.g., a thermostat controlled climate conditioning unit, for
maintaining a temperature within the internal chamber of the
housing.
[0016] In certain embodiments, the housing comprises two mounting
platforms, each affixed within the housing in a substantially
horizontal plane, wherein the mounting platforms define three
compartments within the internal chamber of the housing. Thus, in
an additional embodiment, the device comprises a mounting platform
affixed near the top of the viewing window, near the bottom of the
viewing window or both, allowing for cameras to be mounted in a
vertical plane from the top platform, the bottom platform or both
with a camera angle that is aligned with the viewing window.
[0017] In any of the embodiments as taught or described herein, the
mounting platform comprises a plurality of slots or configuration
of slots having a length that allows the camera to be slid or moved
along the axis of the mounting platform. In still additional
embodiments, the slot or configuration of slots have a width
sufficient to allow part of the camera mounting bracket to extend
or pass through it but narrow enough such that part of the camera
mounting bracket can rest on a surface of the mounting platform so
as to secure and fix the position of the camera. In certain
embodiments, the mounting platform comprises one or more
geometrical configurations of slots that allows for a virtually
unlimited number of possible camera positions. For example, in one
embodiment, one or more slots are cut in a shape that is
substantially the same as the shape of the mounting platform but
having a reduced length and width (in the case of a rectangular or
square shape) or diameter (in the case of a circular shape). In
certain embodiments, the slots are concentric (i.e., share the same
center or axis). In certain embodiments, the mounting platform
comprises a configuration of slots having an "H" or "double-H" like
shape (e.g., "|-|" or "|-|-|") or a combination of both. In another
of the preferred embodiments, the mounting platform is secured
within the housing at a height sufficient to align the viewing
windows with the viewing angle of the cameras.
[0018] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
mounting platform may additionally comprise one or more holes or
apertures in extending through from the top surface to the bottom
surface to accommodate wiring or cables for the devices contained
in the housing.
[0019] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
camera mounting bracket may be a single (i.e., unitary) or
multi-component device so long as the bracket comprises one portion
that can extend or be received through the slots in the mounting
platform and be reversibly tightened and secured to the mounting
platform surface in order to slide and fix, respectively the
bracket; and a portion that is adjustably affixed to a camera. In
certain embodiments, the camera mounting brackets are slidably
and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform near the top of
the internal chamber of the housing, near the bottom of the
internal chamber of the housing or a combination of both.
[0020] In certain embodiments, the camera mounting bracket
comprises a fastener having a body defining a head and a shaft,
wherein the head is wider than the shaft and also the width of the
slot or combination of slots in the mounting platform. In other
words, the slots in the mounting platform have a width sufficient
to retain the head of the fastener while allowing the shaft of the
fastener to extend therethrough and engage the camera mounting
bracket. In certain embodiments, the head of the fastener rests or
sits directly or indirectly on a surface of the mounting
platform.
[0021] In additional embodiments, the camera mounting bracket
comprises a co-axial shaft, a portion of which extends through the
slot in the mounting platform, and is received by fastener, i.e., a
bolt or disc configured to slidably and/or adjustably affix the
camera in a position along the slot in the mounting platform,
wherein the fastener is configured to be reversibly loosened and
tightened, and wherein when loosened, the camera mounting bracket
can be slid along the length of the slot in the mounting platform,
and when tightened the camera is secured into position.
[0022] In a preferred embodiment the camera mounting bracket is a
post-type bracket comprising a wide or approximately flat portion
configured to rest on a surface of the mounting platform, a
reversibly securable fastener that extends through the slot in the
mounting platform and is received by either or both of the flat
portion and one end of the post, wherein the other end of the post
comprises a camera mount. In a preferred embodiment, the camera
mount comprises a ball-and-socket mount for adjustably affixing a
camera.
[0023] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device comprises a plurality of cameras, for example, an analog
camera, a digital camera, an infrared camera, a heat imaging
camera, a video camera, a still image camera, IP based camera or a
combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the device comprises
one or more pan/tilt/zoom cameras. In a preferred embodiment, the
cameras are configured within the housing such that substantially
360 degrees of viewing or imaging data is captured (and recorded
and/or transmitted) simultaneously.
[0024] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device comprises a computer component, e.g., at least one computer
processor or server operably connected to each of the cameras,
directly or indirectly. In a preferred embodiment, the processor or
server is configured to capture and/or store imaging data from the
cameras. In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device further comprises a local area network (LAN) connection, a
wireless local area network (WLAN) or wi-fi internet transmitter or
combination thereof.
[0025] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device comprises a power source. In certain embodiments, the power
source is configured to receive an AC electrical connection, a DC
electrical connection, e.g., a battery or battery pack, and/or
solar electric. In an embodiment, the device comprises one or more
solar electric panels affixed to one or more surfaces of the device
for providing power and/or charging a battery.
[0026] In an additional aspect, the description provides an
integrated 360 degree surveillance system comprising a device as
described herein, a computer processor or server, a data
connection, i.e., fiber, Cat5, Cath, or the like, to transmit data
and/or information to the user, and a remote receiver, processor
and display that are in computer communication, e.g., wireless
computer communication, with the device, wherein the cameras
capture video or images simultaneously from substantially 360
degrees of view, and wherein the processor or server stores the
video or image data, and wherein the internet transmitter transmits
the video or image data information to a remote processor and/or
display.
[0027] In still an additional aspect, the description provides a
method of surveying or monitoring simultaneously and in real-time a
substantially 360 degree area comprising the steps of providing a
surveillance device as described herein and a remote display,
wherein the device and the remote display are in computer
communication, supplying power to the same, and monitoring remotely
substantially 360 degrees of viewing area simultaneously.
[0028] The preceding general areas of utility are given by way of
example only and are not intended to be limiting on the scope of
the present disclosure and appended claims. Additional objects and
advantages associated with the compositions, methods, and processes
of the present invention will be appreciated by one of ordinary
skill in the art in light of the instant claims, description, and
examples. For example, the various aspects and embodiments of the
invention may be utilized in numerous combinations, all of which
are expressly contemplated by the present description. These
additional advantages objects and embodiments are expressly
included within the scope of the present invention. The
publications and other materials used herein to illuminate the
background of the invention, and in particular cases, to provide
additional details respecting the practice, are incorporated by
reference, and for convenience are listed in the appended
bibliography.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and
form a part of the specification, illustrate example systems,
components, and so on, that illustrate various example embodiments
of aspects of the invention and, together with the description,
serve to explain the principles of the invention. The drawings are
only for the purpose of illustrating an embodiment of the invention
and are not to be construed as limiting the invention. It will be
appreciated that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes,
groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one
example of the boundaries. One of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that one element may be designed as multiple elements or
that multiple elements may be designed as one element. Furthermore,
elements may not be drawn to scale. Further objects, features and
advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following
detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
figures showing illustrative embodiments of the invention, in
which:
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary
video surveillance device housing as described herein.
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the exemplary video
surveillance device housing of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the exemplary video
surveillance device housing of FIG. 1.
[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the exemplary video
surveillance device housing of FIG. 1; the view being into the
through the open door into the interior of the housing.
[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the exemplary video
surveillance device housing of FIG. 1.
[0035] FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of the exemplary video
surveillance device housing of FIG. 1.
[0036] FIG. 7 illustrates (A) a top view, (B) front, and (C) side
view of the side wall of the exemplary video surveillance device
housing of FIG. 1.
[0037] FIG. 8 illustrates (A) top view, (B) front, and (C) side
view of the door panel of the exemplary video surveillance device
housing of FIG. 1, including apertures for securing a latch or
locking mechanism.
[0038] FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of a side wall of the
exemplary video surveillance device housing of FIG. 1, which is
configured to receive an climate control unit.
[0039] FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary viewing
window assembly of a video surveillance device housing as described
herein.
[0040] FIG. 11 illustrates (A) a top, (B) front, (C) bottom, (D)
side, (e) back, and (F) top perspective view of the exemplary
window assembly of FIG. 10.
[0041] FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of an exemplary upper
mounting platform of the video surveillance device housing as
described herein.
[0042] FIG. 13 illustrates a top view of an exemplary lower
mounting platform of the video surveillance device housing as
described herein.
[0043] FIG. 14 illustrates a an exemplary video surveillance device
as described herein bottom-mounted to the top of a post.
[0044] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary
video surveillance device housing as described herein having a
cylindrical shape.
[0045] FIG. 16 illustrates a an exemplary camera array of the video
surveillance device as described herein. In particular, the Figure
demonstrates the inclusion of camera mounting brackets of different
lengths being affixed to the upper mounting platform through the
slots. The bottom mounting platform, viewing window and viewing
window assembly are also visible.
[0046] FIG. 17 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a video
surveillance device and system as described herein. In particular,
the Figure demonstrates a two-part housing in which a second
housing (in this example a cylindrical housing) is affixed or
secured to a surface of the first housing. In a preferred
embodiment, the second housing comprises one or more pan/tilt/zoom
cameras configured move or rotate 360 degrees.
[0047] FIG. 18 illustrates a schematic of the an exemplary video
surveillance device or system as described herein, including the
housing, mounting platforms, cameras, camera mounting brackets,
data/power patch panel, power panel, climate control unit, digital
video recorder/network video recorder.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] The following is a detailed description of the invention
provided to aid those skilled in the art in practicing the present
invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art may make
modifications and variations in the embodiments described herein
without departing from the spirit or scope of the present
invention. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific
terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by
one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.
The terminology used in the description of the invention herein is
for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to
be limiting of the invention. All publications, patent
applications, patents, figures and other references mentioned
herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their
entirety.
[0049] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative
of advantageous devices compositions, and systems of the present
disclosure and methods/techniques thereof. It should be understood,
however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the
present disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms.
Therefore, details disclosed herein with reference to exemplary
steel compositions/fabrication methods and associated
processes/techniques of assembly and use are not to be interpreted
as limiting, but merely as the basis for teaching one skilled in
the art how to make and use the advantageous steel compositions of
the present disclosure. Drawing figures are not necessarily to
scale and in certain views, parts may have been exaggerated for
purposes of clarity.
[0050] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that
each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper
and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening
value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention.
Ranges from any lower limit to any upper limit are contemplated.
The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges which may
independently be included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed
within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in
the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of
the limits, ranges excluding either both of those included limits
are also included in the invention.
[0051] Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to
those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing
of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are
now described. All publications mentioned herein are incorporated
herein by reference to disclose and described the methods and/or
materials in connection with which the publications are cited.
[0052] The articles "a" and "an" as used herein and in the appended
claims are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e.,
to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article unless
the context clearly indicates otherwise. By way of example, "an
element" means one element or more than one element.
[0053] All numerical values within the detailed description and the
claims herein are modified by "about" or "approximately" the
indicated value, and take into account experimental error and
variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill
in the art.
[0054] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that
each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise (such as in the case
of a group containing a number of carbon atoms in which case each
carbon atom number falling within the range is provided), between
the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or
intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the
invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may
independently be included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed
within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in
the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of
the limits, ranges excluding either both of those included limits
are also included in the invention. The articles "a" and "an" are
used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least
one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example,
"an element" means one element or more than one element.
[0055] The phrase "and/or," as used herein in the specification and
in the claims, should be understood to mean "either or both" of the
elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively
present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases.
Multiple elements listed with "and/or" should be construed in the
same fashion, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined.
Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements
specifically identified by the "and/or" clause, whether related or
unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a
non-limiting example, a reference to "A and/or B", when used in
conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising" can
refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements
other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally
including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to
both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.
[0056] Furthermore, to the extent that the term "or" is employed in
the detailed description or claims (e.g., A or B) it is intended to
mean "A or B or both". For example, when separating items in a
list, "or" or "and/or" shall be interpreted as being inclusive,
i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than
one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional
unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such
as, e.g., "only one of A or B" or "exactly one of A or B," "only A
or B but not both," or, when used in the claims, "consisting of,"
will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or
list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein shall
only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e.,
"one or the other but not both") when preceded by terms of
exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly
one of." See, Bryan A. Garner, A Dictionary of Modern Legal Usage
624 (2d. Ed. 1995).
[0057] "Consisting essentially of," when used in the claims, shall
have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.
[0058] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the
phrase "at least one," in reference to a list of one or more
elements, should be understood to mean at least one element
selected from anyone or more of the elements in the list of
elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and
every element specifically listed within the list of elements and
not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements.
This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present
other than the elements specifically identified within the list of
elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related
or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a
nonlimiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently,
"at least one of A or B," or, equivalently "at least one of A
and/or B") can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one,
optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and
optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment,
to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A
present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet
another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than
one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B
(and optionally including other elements); etc.
[0059] It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated
to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more
than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method
is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts
of the method are recited.
[0060] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all
transitional phrases such as "comprising," "including," "carrying,"
"having," "containing," "involving," "holding," "composed of,"
"includes," and the like are to be understood to be open-ended,
i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional
phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be
closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set
forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining
Procedures, Section 2111.03.
[0061] As used herein, the following terms may have meanings
ascribed to them below, unless specified otherwise. However, it
should be understood that other meanings that are known or
understood by those having ordinary skill in the art are also
possible, and within the scope of the present invention. In
instances where a term is not specifically defined herein, that
term is given an art-recognized meaning by those of ordinary skill
applying that term in context to its use in describing the present
invention. All publications, patent applications, patents, and
other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in
their entirety. In the case of conflict, the present specification,
including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials,
methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be
limiting. The examples are not intended to be limiting. Both
singular and plural forms of terms may be within the
definitions.
[0062] As used in this application, the term "computer component"
refers to a computer-related entity: hardware, firmware, software,
a combination thereof, or software in execution. For example, a
computer component can be, but is not limited to being, a process
running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a
thread of execution, a program, and a computer. By way of
illustration, both an application running on a server and the
server can be computer components. One or more computer components
can reside within a process or thread of execution and a computer
component can be localized on one computer or distributed between
two or more computers.
[0063] "Computer communication," as used herein, refers to a
communication between two or more computing devices (e.g.,
computer, personal digital assistant, cellular telephone) and can
be, for example, a network transfer, a file transfer, an applet
transfer, an email, a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) transfer,
and so on. A computer communication can occur across, for example,
a wireless system (e.g., IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15), an Ethernet
system (e.g., IEEE 802.3), a token ring system (e.g., IEEE 802.5),
a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a
point-to-point system, a circuit switching system, a packet
switching system, combinations thereof, and so on.
[0064] "Computer-readable medium" or "CRM" as used herein, refers
to a medium that participates in directly or indirectly providing
signals, instructions, or data. A computer-readable medium may take
forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile
media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media may include, for
example, optical or magnetic disks, and so on. Volatile media may
include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, dynamic memory,
and the like. Transmission media may include coaxial cables, copper
wire, fiber optic cables, and the like. Transmission media can also
take the form of electromagnetic radiation, like that generated
during radio-wave and infra-red data communications, or take the
form of one or more groups of signals. Common forms of a
computer-readable medium include, but are not limited to, a floppy
disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, other magnetic
media, a CD-ROM, other optical media, punch cards, paper tape,
other physical media with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, an
EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, or other memory chip or card, a memory stick,
a carrier wave/pulse, and other media from which a computer, a
processor or other electronic device can read. Signals used to
propagate instructions or other software over a network, like the
Internet, can be considered a "computer-readable medium."
[0065] "Data store," as used herein, refers to a physical or
logical entity that can store data. A data store may be, for
example, a database, a table, a file, a list, a queue, a heap, a
memory, a register, and so on. A data store may reside in one
logical or physical entity or may be distributed between two or
more logical or physical entities.
[0066] "Logic," as used herein, includes but is not limited to
hardware, firmware, software, or combinations of each to perform a
function(s) or an action(s), or to cause a function or action from
another logic, method, or system. For example, based on a desired
application or needs, logic may include a software controlled
microprocessor, discrete logic like an application specific
integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmed logic device, a memory
device containing instructions, or the like. Logic may include one
or more gates, combinations of gates, or other circuit components.
Logic may also be fully embodied as software. Where multiple
logical logics are described, it may be possible to incorporate the
multiple logics into one physical logic. Similarly, where a single
logical logic is described, it may be possible to distribute that
single logical logic between multiple physical logics.
[0067] "Query," as used herein, refers to a semantic construction
that facilitates gathering and processing information. A query
might be formulated in a database query language like structured
query language (SQL) or object query language (OQL). A query might
be implemented in computer code (e.g., C#, C++, Javascript) that
can be employed to gather information from various data stores or
information sources.
[0068] "Signal," as used herein, includes but is not limited to one
or more electrical or optical signals, analog or digital signals,
data, one or more computer or processor instructions, messages, a
bit or bit stream, or other means that can be received, transmitted
or detected.
[0069] An "operable connection," or a connection by which entities
are "operably connected," is one in which signals, physical
communications, or logical communications may be sent or received.
Typically, an operable connection includes a physical interface, an
electrical interface, or a data interface, but it is to be noted
that an operable connection may include differing combinations of
these or other types of connections sufficient to allow operable
control. For example, two entities can be operably connected by
being able to communicate signals to each other directly or through
one or more intermediate entities like a processor, an operating
system, a logic, software, or other entity. Logical or physical
communication channels can be used to create an operable
connection.
[0070] "Software," as used herein, includes but is not limited to,
one or more computer or processor instructions that can be read,
interpreted, compiled, or executed and that cause a computer,
processor, or other electronic device to perform functions, actions
or behave in a desired manner. The instructions may be embodied in
various forms like routines, algorithms, modules, methods, threads,
or programs including separate applications or code from
dynamically or statically linked libraries. Software may also be
implemented in a variety of executable or loadable forms including,
but not limited to, a stand-alone program, a function call (local
or remote), a servelet, an applet, instructions stored in a memory,
part of an operating system or other types of executable
instructions. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in
the art that the form of software may depend, for example, on
requirements of a desired application, the environment in which it
runs, or the desires of a designer/programmer or the like. It will
also be appreciated that computer-readable or executable
instructions can be located in one logic or distributed between two
or more communicating, co-operating, or parallel processing logics
and thus can be loaded or executed in serial, parallel, massively
parallel and other manners.
[0071] Suitable software for implementing the various components of
the example systems and methods described herein may be produced
using programming languages and tools like Java, Pascal, C#, C++,
C, CGI, Perl, SQL, APIs, SDKs, assembly, firmware, microcode, or
other languages and tools. Software, whether an entire system or a
component of a system, may be embodied as an article of manufacture
and maintained or provided as part of a computer-readable medium as
defined previously. Another form of the software may include
signals that transmit program code of the software to a recipient
over a network or other communication medium. Thus, in one example,
a computer-readable medium has a form of signals that represent the
software/firmware as it is downloaded from a web server to a user.
In another example, the computer-readable medium has a form of the
software/firmware as it is maintained on the web server. Other
forms may also be used.
[0072] "User," as used herein, includes but is not limited to one
or more persons, software, computers or other devices, or
combinations of these.
[0073] Unless specifically stated otherwise, it is appreciated that
throughout the description, terms like processing, computing,
calculating, determining, displaying, or the like, refer to actions
and processes of a computer system, logic, processor, or similar
electronic device that manipulates and transforms data represented
as physical (electronic) quantities.
[0074] The present description provides a video surveillance device
and related system, and in particular a self-contained surveillance
system having a video and/or imaging camera array configured to
allow approximately 360 degree live remote monitoring and, e.g.,
video and imaging archiving. A single camera only gives one point
of view at in a single focal zoom at any particular moment. In
addition, video consists of large amounts of data per frame,
multiplied by thousands of bits of information that cannot be
efficiently transmitted via current available modes of data
communication. The device and systems as described herein provide
increased coverage as compared to other video surveillance
applications, provide ample video or image storage capacity, allows
for diversity and flexibility in the types of imaging and camera
array configuration; provide for remote monitoring and control, and
is integrated so that it is convenient to install and maintain.
[0075] Current applications do not provide all in one local data
storage solutions at this capacity with this flexibility. With
multiple views from multiple devices mounted in one unit designed
for full 360 degrees of view, the end result is full coverage where
there was previously a fraction of coverage. In addition, the
present device is large enough to accommodate large capacity
storage devices or servers (i.e., multi-terabyte) to locally store
video for review or download purposes. This eliminates the need for
bandwidth requirements that normally would prohibit sufficient
local video storage, thus prohibit video storage of capacity and
speed.
[0076] The following description of aspects and embodiments
provided herein includes reference to the exemplary embodiments
depicted in the drawings. It is to be understood that the drawings
and embodiments described herein are exemplary only, and additional
modifications and combinations would be obvious to those of skill
in the art in view of the present description, and therefore, are
expressly included within the scope of the disclosure. For
convenience, like components are referred to using like
numerals.
[0077] In one aspect the description provides a device surveillance
imaging the device comprising a housing defining an internal
chamber and including a viewing window a side wall, wherein the
internal chamber of the housing comprises, (a) a means for
mounting, wherein the mounting means includes a slot, configuration
of slots, a track or combination thereof; (b) a plurality of camera
mounting brackets comprising one end having a camera mount
configured to adjustably affix a camera, and another end configured
to be slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform
through the slot or configuration of slots in the mounting
platform; and (c) a camera adjustably affixed to each bracket
camera mount.
[0078] In one aspect the description provides a device for
approximately 360 degree surveillance imaging the device comprising
a housing defining an internal chamber and including a viewing
window on each side wall, wherein the internal chamber of the
housing comprises, (a) a means for mounting, wherein the mounting
means includes a slot, configuration of slots, a track or
combination thereof; (b) a plurality of camera mounting brackets
comprising one end having a camera mount configured to adjustably
affix a camera, and another end configured to be slidably and/or
adjustably affixed to the mounting platform through the slot or
configuration of slots in the mounting platform; and (c) a camera
adjustably affixed to each bracket camera mount, wherein the
cameras are configured to provide for substantially 360 degree
viewing or imaging simultaneously.
[0079] Various views of exemplary video surveillance devices and
systems encompassed by the present description are illustrated in
FIGS. 1-18. With reference to FIGS. 1-5, an exemplary device
comprises a housing 10. The housing 10 comprises a top surface 12,
a bottom surface 14, and side walls 16 defining an internal
chamber. The housing 10 includes a viewing window 18 on each side
wall 16. In any of the embodiments as described herein, the housing
may be of any desired size or shape. For example, the
cross-sectional shape of the housing may be triangular, square,
pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal or any other combination of
angles, cylindrical or oval shaped. In certain preferred
embodiments, the housing is approximately square in shape (i.e.,
four side walls of approximately equal length), as depicted in FIG.
1.
[0080] In addition, in any of the embodiments described herein the
housing 10 can be constructed out of any suitable material known to
those of skill in the art, including, e.g., wood, metal (e.g.,
steel, copper, aluminum), plastic, polycarbonate, an alloy or the
like. As such, in certain embodiments, the housing is constructed
of a material selected from the group consisting of wood, metal
(e.g., steel, copper, aluminum), plastic, polycarbonate, alloy and
combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the housing is
constructed out of metal. In a preferred embodiment, the housing is
aluminum. The parts of the housing can be fastened using any
suitable fastener known in the art, including studs, screws, rivets
or the like. Exemplary positions of the fasteners are depicted in
the figures as small open circles along the periphery of the
housing components.
[0081] Methods and techniques suitable for fabricating the metal
housing, for example, the housing 10 are well known in the art and
are incorporated herein. For example, the metal or aluminum panels
can be cut from a sheet to the desired dimensions and fastened with
common fasteners, e.g., metal screws, rivets, bolts, or the
like.
[0082] FIG. 1 also illustrates a housing 10 further comprising a
door 20 hingely connected to a side wall 16, wherein the door 20
has an open position and a closed position. The door 20 optionally
comprises a latch or a lock 24 for securing the door 20 in the
closed position. The door latch 24 or lock can be of any suitable
type well-known by those of skill in the art. As such, in a
preferred embodiment, the housing comprises a door hingely
connected to a side wall; the door optionally including a latch or
lock for securing the door in a closed or locked position.
[0083] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the exemplary housing 10 of
FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the housing 10 of FIG. 1
showing the door 20 open (inside surface visible). FIG. 4
illustrates the front view of the exemplary housing 10 of FIG. 1
wherein the door 20 is open and the view is into the internal
chamber. FIG. 5 illustrates another side view of the housing 10 of
FIG. 1, wherein the back side wall is detached and the door 20 is
open (front surface of door is visible).
[0084] FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of the housing 10 of
FIG. 1. The drawing shows the top surface 12, the bottom surface
14, side walls 16, door 20, viewing window 18 and viewing window
assembly 28, climate control unit 26. FIG. 6 also illustrates
internal support frame studs 30 and an internal light bar 31. The
small open circles represent exemplary positions for fasteners.
[0085] FIG. 7 provides multiple views ((A) top, (B) front, and (C)
side) of a side wall 16 of the exemplary housing 10 of FIG. 1
comprising a viewing window 18 cut into the side wall.
[0086] FIG. 8 provides multiple views ((A) top, (B) front, and (C)
side) of a door 20 of the exemplary housing 10 of FIG. 1 comprising
a viewing window 18 cut into the side wall. FIG. 8 also shows
exemplary apertures 80 extending through the door 20 for affixing
the latch or lock 24.
[0087] FIG. 9 provides a front view of another exemplary side wall
16 of the housing 10 from FIG. 1. The side wall 16 comprises a
viewing window 18 cut into the side wall. FIG. 9 also shows
exemplary apertures 90 extending through the side wall 16 for
affixing a climate control unit 26.
[0088] As illustrated in exemplary device of FIGS. 1-5, the device
as described herein preferably comprises a viewing window or
opening 18 in the side wall(s) 16 and door 20 of the housing 10.
Preferably, the size and location of the viewing window is aligned
with the viewing angle of the cameras mounted in the housing
10.
[0089] The device or system as described herein is configured to
view substantially 360 degrees, and therefore, the side wall or
side walls comprise a viewing window or viewing windows that extend
substantially the entire length of the side wall or side walls. It
will be appreciated that design and fabrication needs might make it
impractical or difficult to construct a viewing window that extends
uninterrupted around the entire device. Accordingly, the
description contemplates that some portion of the side wall will
separate the viewing windows. As such, the description provides and
the inventors expressly contemplate devices in which the viewing
windows are of a sufficient size to allow substantially or
approximately 360 degree imaging or viewing. In certain
embodiments, the viewing windows are of a sufficient size to allow
360 degree viewing.
[0090] In any of the embodiments as taught or described herein, the
viewing window comprises an opening in a side wall. In a preferred
embodiment, the viewing window has dimensions sufficient to provide
for camera imaging in substantially or approximately 360 degrees.
In an additional embodiment, the viewing widow has a width that is
approximately the same length as the side wall. In certain
embodiments, e.g., wherein the housing is cylindrical, the side
wall comprises a viewing window that extends in a horizontal plane
approximately the entire circumference of the cylinder.
[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the housing comprises a viewing
window assembly 28 (see FIGS. 1-6, 10, 11, 14-16). With reference
to FIG. 10, an exemplary viewing window assembly 28 comprises a
main body 102 or frame, a set frame 104, a transparent pane 106,
and a retaining bracket 108. The transparent pane 106 covering the
viewing window 18 allows light to pass through, and therefore,
video or image data can be captured by the cameras but the internal
components are substantially protected from the outside
environment. FIG. 11 illustrates a variety of views ((A) top, (B)
front, (C) bottom, (D) side, (E) back, and (F) front perspective)
of the viewing window assembly of FIG. 10.
[0092] In certain embodiments, the components of the viewing window
assembly are connected using, e.g., rivets, suds, screws, glue,
welds, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the components of
the viewing window assembly are secured together using studs,
sealing washers and Nylock nuts. The viewing window assembly can
also comprise weather stripping between one or more of the
components of the assembly in order to further insulate the housing
and prevent water leakage.
[0093] In certain embodiments, the housing comprises a transparent
pane (e.g., 106, FIG. 10) formed of a durable transparent material
such as glass or plastic, e.g., Plexiglas, polycarbonate (e.g.,
lexan), polyacrylic, polyvinyl, polystyrene or other durable
polymeric material, aluminum oxynitride, spinel or a combination
thereof. The ability of a glass withstand shock is improved by the
process of tempering. When treated with heating and cooling or with
chemical processes, the glass becomes much stronger. In a preferred
embodiment, the transparent pane (e.g., 106) is lexan. In
additional embodiments, the transparent pane (e.g., 106) is tinted
to reduce glare, is comprised of a non-glare transparent material,
comprised of auto-tinting glass or a combination thereof. In
certain additional embodiments, the viewing window 18 is affixed at
a downward angle (e.g., an obtuse angle relative to the vertical
plane of the side wall) to facilitate downward camera angles.
[0094] Break-resistant panes, e.g., window panes, can also be
constructed using, e.g., polycarbonate, thermoplastic, layers of
laminated glass, or a combination thereof. The aim is to make a
material with the appearance and clarity of standard glass but with
effective protection from damage. Polycarbonate products, which can
be used, are currently available, e.g., Armormax.TM.,
Makroclear.TM., Cyrolon.TM., Lexan.TM. or Tuffak.TM., which are
often sandwiched between layers of regular glass. The polycarbonate
usually has one of two types of coating to resist abrasion: a soft
coating that heals after being scratched (such as elastomeric
carbon-based polymers) or a hard coating that prevents scratching
(such as silicon-based polymers). The plastic in laminate designs
also provides resistance to impact.
[0095] The transparent panes can also be constructed of laminated
glass built from glass sheets bonded together with polyvinyl
butyral, polyurethane or ethylene-vinyl acetate. Alternatively,
durable transparent panes can be constructed out of a transparent
material including aluminum oxynitride "glass," e.g., ALON.TM. as
the outside layer. ALON.TM. is much lighter and performs much
better than traditional glass/polymer laminates.
[0096] The housing 10 also comprises a means for mounting
comprising a slot, configuration of slots, a track or combination
thereof. The means for mounting allows for almost unlimited
flexibility in mounting devices, e.g., cameras, microphones, loud
speakers, projectors, etc. In particular, the mounting means
enables the cameras to be arrayed or configured to provide 360
degrees of simultaneous imaging. In certain preferred embodiments,
the means is configured to receive a camera mounting bracket,
wherein the means comprises a slot, configuration of slots or a
track. It should be understood, however, that the means for
mounting is not limited to merely receiving the camera mounting
bracket. The slot, configuration or slots or track in the means for
mounting could also be configured to receive the camera directly,
such as, for example, in the case where the camera mount is
permanently attached or an integral part of the camera itself. The
means for mounting could also be used to mount any desired
component including, e.g., a microphone, a loud speaker, a
projector, and the like.
[0097] In certain aspects, the means for mounting is a means for
mounting a camera mounting bracket. In certain embodiments, the
means for mounting a camera mounting bracket comprises a mounting
platform having a slot or configuration of slots. Thus, in
additional embodiments the internal chamber of the housing further
comprises a mounting platform including a slot or configuration of
slots. For example, FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate an exemplary upper
mounting platform 120 and a lower mounting platform 130 configured
to fit within the internal chamber of, e.g., housing 10 (FIG. 1).
In a preferred embodiment, the mounting platforms 120, 130
comprises a top surface and a bottom surface and at least one slot
or configuration of slots 122, 132 extending therethrough. The
slots or configuration of slots 122, 132 provide for universal
camera mounting. In other words, the slots allow for an almost
unlimited number and combination of camera positions.
[0098] It is contemplated that the mounting platform may be of any
desired size and/or desired shape. However, as would be recognized
by the skilled artisan, the shape of the mounting platform will in
most cases be dictated by the shape of the housing, such that the
mounting platform fits neatly within the internal chamber of the
housing. In certain embodiments, the mounting platform, e.g., 120
and 130, is affixed within the housing in a substantially
horizontal plane near the top of the viewing window, near the
bottom of the viewing window or both. In any of the embodiments as
taught or described herein, the device may comprise one or more
mounting platforms.
[0099] In another exemplary embodiment, the side panels of the
housing comprise brackets or tracks 22 (FIGS. 1, 4) extending
horizontally along the inward facing surface of the side wall
configured to receive the mounting platform and secure it in place.
In additional exemplary embodiments, the housing comprises two
mounting platforms, e.g., an upper mounting platform 120 and a
lower mounting platform 130, each affixed within the housing in a
substantially horizontal plane, wherein the mounting platforms
define three compartments within the internal chamber of the
housing.
[0100] Thus, in an additional embodiment, the housing comprises a
mounting platform affixed near the top of the housing and a
mounting platform affixed near the bottom of the housing, allowing
for cameras to be mounted in a vertical plane from the top
platform, the bottom platform or both. The above configuration is
illustrated in FIG. 16. FIG. 16 shows an upper mounting platform
120 and lower mounting platform 130 comprising slots or a
configuration of slots 122, 132. FIG. 16 also illustrates the
viewing window 8 and viewing window assembly, which is angled
downward. Significantly, FIG. 16 also illustrates the camera
mounting bracket 160 affixed to the mounting platform 120 and
camera 162. FIG. 16 also illustrates how the camera mounting
brackets can be of different lengths, which along with the slots,
allows for a vast number of camera array combinations and viewing
angles. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a
plurality of camera mounting brackets of different lengths slidably
and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform through the
slots.
[0101] As indicated above, in a preferred embodiment the mounting
platform comprises a plurality of slots or configuration of slots,
see e.g., 122, 132, having a length that allows the camera mounting
bracket (and therefore, the adjustably affixed camera) to be slid
or moved along in a plane parallel to the mounting platform.
Preferably, the slot or configuration of slots, (see, e.g., 122,
132, FIG. 16) have a width sufficient to allow a fastener or a
portion of a camera mounting bracket to extend or pass through the
slot but narrow enough such that part of the fastener or camera
mounting bracket can be secured and rest on the surface of the
mounting platform near, juxtaposed or in apposition to the slot, so
as to secure and fix the position of the camera. In certain
embodiments, the mounting platform comprises one or more
geometrical configurations of slots that allows for a virtually
unlimited number of possible camera positions. For example, in one
embodiment, one or more slots are cut in a shape that is
substantially the same as the shape of the mounting platform but
having a reduced length and width (in the case of a rectangular or
square shape) or diameter (in the case of a circular shape). In
certain embodiments, the slots are concentric (i.e., share the same
center or axis). In certain embodiments, the mounting platform
comprises a configuration of slots having an "H" or "double-H" like
shape (e.g., "|-|" or "|-|-|") (see 122, 132, FIGS. 12 and 13) or a
combination of both. In another of the preferred embodiments, the
mounting platform 120, 130 is secured within the housing at a
height sufficient to align the viewing windows with the viewing
angle of the cameras.
[0102] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
mounting platform may additionally comprise one or more holes (see
124, FIG. 1) or apertures extending through from the top surface to
the bottom surface to accommodate wiring or cables for the devices
contained in the housing.
[0103] In certain embodiments, the means for mounting a camera
mounting bracket comprises a rail or plurality of rails configured
to form a slot, configuration of slots or track therebetween. Thus,
in additional embodiments In another embodiment, the housing 10
comprises a plurality of rails or system of rails forming a slot,
configuration of slots or a track therebetween, wherein the rails
or system of rails are secured or affixed to the side walls of the
housing, and wherein the rails are configured to secure a plurality
of camera mounting brackets or other desired component as described
herein, including, for example, a microphone, a loud speaker, a
projector, a camera or the like. In certain embodiments, the rails
are used instead of or in conjunction with the mounting platform.
As such, the rails or system of rails can be installed near the top
or the bottom of the viewing window. In certain embodiments, the
rail comprises slots or a configuration of slots such that a single
rail can be used to slidably and/or adjustably affix a camera
mounting bracket. In another embodiment, the housing comprising a
plurality of rails and further comprises a plurality of camera
mounting brackets slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the rails.
In another embodiment, the housing comprises both a mounting
platform and a plurality of rails for slidably and/or adjustably
affixing a plurality of camera mounting brackets.
[0104] In certain embodiments the description provides an enclosure
for multiple surveillance cameras comprising: a plurality of side
walls at 90 degrees from the top and bottom surfaces defining an
internal chamber to accommodate a plurality of adjustably fixed
cameras and/or a pan/tilt/zoom camera, and a mounting platform,
wherein the cameras are slidably and/or adjustably affixed to slots
in the mounting platform, and wherein the plurality of side walls
include a viewing window that sufficient to allow approximately 360
degrees of viewing by the plurality of cameras.
[0105] In an additional aspect, the housing further comprises a
plurality of camera mounting brackets. For example, FIG. 16
illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the device comprising a
plurality of camera mounting brackets 160 affixed to the upper
mounting platform 120, and a camera 162. In a preferred embodiment,
the camera mounting brackets include an end having a camera mount
configured to adjustably affix a camera, and another end configured
to be slidably and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform
through the slot or configuration of slots in the mounting
platform.
[0106] In one embodiment, housing 10 includes a camera mounting
bracket 160, which may mount inside housing 10. Camera mounting
bracket 160 may be configured to accept mounting mechanisms from
fixed cameras and pan/tilt/zoom camera. The cameras may be secured
to bracket 160, and then to the mounting platform 120, 130, which
in turn may be secured inside housing 10. This construction allows
for all the cameras to first be mounted to camera mounting bracket
160 while outside of housing 10. The complete assembly platform can
then be inserted and secured in housing 10.
[0107] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
camera mounting bracket may be a single (i.e., unitary) or
multi-component device so long as the bracket comprises one portion
adjustably affixed to a camera, and a portion that can extend or be
received through the slots in the mounting platform and be
reversibly loosened and secured to the surface(s) of the mounting
platform in order to slide and affix, respectively, the bracket. In
certain embodiments, the camera mounting brackets are slidably
and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform near the top of
the internal chamber of the housing, near the bottom of the
internal chamber of the housing or a combination of both. In
certain embodiments, the camera mounting brackets are slidably
and/or adjustably affixed to the mounting platform near the top of
the viewing window, near the bottom of the viewing window or a
combination of both.
[0108] In certain embodiments, the camera mounting bracket
comprises a fastener having a body defining a head and a shaft,
wherein the head is wider than the shaft and also wider than the
width of the slot or combination of slots (see, e.g., 122, 132,
FIGS. 12 and 13) in the mounting platform. In other words, the
slots in the mounting platform have a width sufficient to retain
the head of the fastener while allowing the shaft of the fastener
to extend therethrough and engage the camera mounting bracket 160.
In certain embodiments, the head of the fastener rests or sits
directly or indirectly on a surface of the mounting platform 120,
130.
[0109] In additional embodiments, the camera mounting bracket 160
comprises a shaft having a portion of which extends through the
slot in the mounting platform, and is received by a nut, a bolt or
other fastener, configured to slidably and/or adjustably affix the
camera in a position along the slot in the mounting platform 120,
130, wherein the fastener is configured to be reversibly loosened
and tightened, and wherein when loosened, the camera mounting
bracket 160 can be slid along the length of the slot 122, 132 in
the mounting platform 120, 130, and when tightened the camera 162
is secured into position.
[0110] In a preferred embodiment, the camera mounting bracket 160
comprises a post and an approximately flat washer or nut portion
configured to rest on a surface of the mounting platform 120, 130,
a reversibly securable fastener that extends through the slot in
the mounting platform 120, 130, which is received by the flat
washer or nut portion, wherein the other end of the post comprises
a camera mount. In a preferred embodiment, the camera mount
comprises a ball-and-socket mount for adjustably affixing a camera.
For example, a post-type camera mounting bracket that can be
utilized in the described devices includes, e.g., the VideoSecu
swivel video camera mount bracket having a mini-ball head camera
mount that can turn, rotate, and tilt; which also provides
customizable length.
[0111] FIG. 14 illustrates the exemplary housing 10 depicted in
FIG. 1 bottom-mounted to a post 142. FIG. 14 shows the top 12
surface and bottom 14 surface, side walls 16, door 20 hingely
connected to a side wall, latch 24, viewing window 18 and viewing
window assembly 28. In addition, the device in FIG. 14 also
comprises a plurality of vents 140 in the housing 10 to facilitate
temperature control within the housing 10. In addition, FIG. 14
illustrates another embodiment of the device, comprising an
external surveillance camera, e.g., a pan/tilt/zoom camera 144. In
additional aspects, the device comprises one or more external
components, e.g., microphone, camera, loud speaker, light,
projector, or the like.
[0112] Because the device is configured to provide 360 degree
imaging, it is preferred that the device be mounted in such a way
that allows for unencumbered imaging. Thus, in a preferred
embodiment, the device as described herein is mounted by securing
the device to a platform via the bottom or top of the device.
However, the description is not so limited. In view of the present
description the skilled artisan could ascertain other possible
mounting configurations that would provide approximately 360 degree
surveillance, all of which are expressly contemplated and
incorporated herein.
[0113] FIG. 15 demonstrates another exemplary embodiment of the
housing 10. The housing 10 in FIG. 15 is cylindrical and comprises
a top surface 12, a bottom surface 14, and a side wall 16 including
a viewing window or opening 18. For example, in the exemplary
embodiment of FIG. 15, the viewing window 18 comprises a viewing
window assembly 28, which extend around the circumference of the
housing 10. FIG. 15 also illustrates a door 20 hingely connected to
the side wall, and a plurality of vents 140. In addition, the
exemplary device of FIG. 15 further includes a door latch or lock
24.
[0114] The described device is built to offer full 360 degree
coverage simultaneously with simultaneous wide angle and zoomed
views, vertically and horizontally from the units mounted position.
In addition, it provides a system in which multiple views can be
attained from any configuration of angles or zoom requirements. The
described device also provides the capacity to house many devices
for many purposes to achieve the most complete 360 degree coverage
from its position.
[0115] Thus, in another aspect, the housing further comprises a
camera adjustably affixed to each bracket camera mount, wherein the
cameras are configured to provide for substantially 360 degree
viewing or imaging simultaneously. Thus, in certain embodiments,
the housing comprises a plurality of adjustably fixed cameras fixed
to each camera mount. In certain embodiments, the housing also
comprises a Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) camera device. Such cameras can
also be used for live viewing and/or recording imaging data. In any
of the embodiments taught and described herein, the device
comprises a plurality of cameras, for example, an analog camera, a
digital camera, an infrared camera, a heat imaging camera, a video
camera, a still image camera, or a combination thereof. Suitable
cameras for use in the devices as described herein include and not
limited to IP devices made by Hitachi, Axis, Bosch, Panasonic,
Pelco, and/or Digial Analog devices made by Bosch, Panasonic,
Pelco, DSP and/or PTZ devices made by Panasonic, Bosch, Pelco,
Axis, etc. In an additional embodiment, the device comprises a
motion activated camera. In a preferred embodiment, the cameras are
configured within the housing such that substantially 360 degrees
of viewing or imaging data is captured (and recorded and/or
transmitted) simultaneously.
[0116] In certain embodiments, the device includes controls and
communications circuitry operably connected to the adjustably fixed
cameras and/or the pan/tilt/zoom cameras, where the circuitry is
configured to detect the occurrence of a triggering event from a
first signal received from at least one of the adjustably fixed
cameras and where the circuitry is configured to act upon the
triggering event by at least causing the at least one pan/tilt/zoom
camera to zoom-in in the direction of the triggering event.
Triggering events may include events based on logic, business
systems such as point of sale events, or chain of events; or
analytics including movement in a zone of interest, a person or
vehicle crossing a predetermined line, a person or vehicle crossing
a perimeter, a number of persons or vehicles have gone by an area,
a person or vehicle is being followed through a secured entry
point, persons loitering, persons grouping, crowd gathering, person
slipping and falling, a person spending excessive time in an area,
movement of a vessel on water surface, objects left behind for a
specified amount of time, a vehicle parked for a specified amount
of time, an object or vehicle obstructing a road way or tracks, an
object removed from an area, and so on. The images, sound, or video
may be archived in a data store such as a database, together with
identifying information such as the name or identification of the
triggering event or input device, time and date, camera name,
camera position, and so on. The images, sound, or video may be
archived in a data store such as a database, together with
identifying information such as the name or identification of the
triggering event or input device, time and date, camera name,
camera position, and so on. Archiving archives the images or video
in relation to the identifying information in such a way that would
permit later retrieval of the images or video by use of a query for
the identifying information. At a later time, a user may retrieve
video or images by querying the database.
[0117] In certain additional embodiments, the housing also
comprises one or more light-impenetrable or opaque vertical
partitions, curtains or shrouds separating one side from the
another thereby reducing or preventing the glare or light entering
from one side of the housing from interfering with cameras on the
other side of the partition within the housing.
[0118] In certain embodiments, the side walls may include vent
openings (see 140, FIGS. 14 and 15) that allow air to flow in and
out of housing 10 to cool down electronics enclosed by housing
10.
[0119] In an additional embodiment, the housing comprises a cooling
unit (see, e.g., FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 6, 14, 15) e.g., a thermostat
controlled air conditioning unit, for maintaining a temperature
within the internal chamber of the housing. The above-referenced
figures illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the cooling unit 26
attached to the device housing 10.
[0120] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device comprises a computer component, e.g., at least one computer
processor or server operably connected to each of the cameras,
directly or indirectly. In a preferred embodiment, the processor or
server is configured to capture and/or store imaging data from the
cameras. In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device further comprises a local area network (LAN) connection, a
wireless local area network (WLAN) or wi-fi internet transmitter or
combination thereof.
[0121] In any of the embodiments taught and described herein, the
device comprises a power source. In certain embodiments, the power
source is configured to receive an AC electrical connection, a DC
electrical connection, e.g., a battery or battery pack, and/or
solar electric. In an embodiment, the device comprises one or more
solar electric panels affixed to one or more surfaces of the device
for providing power and/or charging a battery.
[0122] In any of the embodiments, described herein, the device can
further comprise a quick disconnect panel for both video and power
connections to the cameras, a video storage device, e.g., PC based
or embedded; a power panel for cameras and other devices; a
mounting shelf for the storage device; a battery backup/surge
protector for all components; wireless radio; wireless antennas; a
data patch panel for communication applications; an external data
storage device; one or more mounted pan/tilt/zoom cameras; a
climate control unit or a combination thereof.
[0123] In an additional aspect, the description provides an
integrated 360 degree surveillance system comprising the device as
described above, further including a computer processor or server
operably connected to the cameras. In certain embodiments, the
system comprises the device as described herein, further
comprising: a CPU box including controls and communications
circuitry; a power supply operably connected to the controls and
communications circuitry to power the controls and communications
circuitry and an adjustably fixed camera, and the at least one
pan/tilt/zoom camera; and input/output interfaces operably
connected to the controls and communications circuitry, where the
CPU box, the power supply, and the input/output interfaces are
disposed within the housing. In certain additional embodiments, the
device includes multiple CPU boxes for integration of other
communication components including, e.g., a call box with voice
over IP, etc.
[0124] In another aspect, the description also provides a device as
described above further including a second housing appended to the
first. In one embodiment, the second housing can be as described
herein. FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the two-part
device 170 comprising a second housing 171 defining a top surface
172 and a bottom surface 173, a mounting platform 174, a camera
mounting bracket 160, and a camera 162. In certain embodiments, the
second housing comprises a pan/tilt/zoom camera. FIG. 17 also
illustrates a device having a patch panel 175, power panel 176,
digital video recorder 177. 178 and 179 are data and power
interconnectors for electronic equipment, i.e. video, audio, fiber,
data, etc. The second housing 171, like the housing 10 of FIG. 1,
can be of any desired size and shape. In addition,
[0125] In another aspect, the description provides a surveillance
device or system that provides 360 degrees of viewing, data storage
and remote viewing. FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of
the device or system 180 comprising the surveillance system
provided by the present description. The exemplary device or system
180 comprises a housing 10 that defines an internal chamber and
includes viewing windows (not shown) in the side walls, wherein the
viewing windows are configured to allow approximately 360 degrees
of camera viewing or imaging. In a preferred embodiment, the
viewing windows are configured to allow 360 degrees of camera
viewing or imaging. The housing 10 further comprises an upper
mounting platform 120 and/or a lower mounting platform 130. In the
embodiment shown, the housing 10 comprises both an upper mounting
platform and a lower mounting platform 130. In a preferred
embodiment, the housing 10 further includes a vertical partition or
shroud (not shown) between the cameras to reduce glare within the
housing.
[0126] The device or system 180 also comprises a system for
surveillance of approximately 360 degrees of area including cameras
162 mounted to the mounting platforms 120, 130 by the camera
mounting brackets 160 within the housing 10. The combination of the
mounting platforms 120, 130 and the camera mounting brackets 160
provide a nearly unlimited combination of camera array
configurations and camera angles and depths, achieving maximum
combinations of coverage to the 360 degrees of target area. As
described above, the cameras 162 can be of any desired type and
include analog, digital, megapixel, TCP/IP as well as adjustably
fixed cameras and pan/tilt/zoom cameras.
[0127] In certain embodiments, the device or system 180 includes a
wireless radio (Point to Point, Point to Multi Point, Wifi, WiMax,
Wireless Mesh, cellular, Bluetooth, etc.). In certain additional
embodiments, the system includes a remote receiver, processor and
display that are in electronic communication, e.g., wireless
electronic communication, with the device 180, wherein the cameras
162 capture video or images simultaneously from substantially 360
degrees of view, and wherein the processor or server stores the
video or image data, and wherein the internet transmitter transmits
the video or image data information to a remote processor and/or
display.
[0128] In certain embodiments, the device or system 180 further
comprises a climate control unit 26. The climate control unit 26 is
included to maintain year-round optimum operating temperature range
(i.e., cooling and/or heating) for the electronic components,
[0129] In any of the embodiments of the device or system described
herein, the device or system further comprises at least one of a
microphone, a loud speaker, a projector or a combination thereof.
For example, the microphone, can be used to capture and record
audio surveillance of the area being surveyed or monitored. The
audio data can be monitored in real time (i.e., live) or saved and
archived, and reviewed later. The microphone can also be used to
detect audible trigger events that are used to activate camera
monitoring of a specific area. The loud speaker is useful for
delivering or communicating audible warning signals or messages or
conveying audible information to individuals in the area.
[0130] In certain embodiments, the device or system further
comprises a projector. As such, in addition to 360 degree
surveillance the device or system can be configured to include one
or more projectors, e.g., video or still image projectors. The
projectors can be used to display, e.g., on a surface such as a
building, screen or billboard, any desired image or video. For
example, the projector could be configured to display the
surveillance footage captured by the cameras in the device. The
projectors could also be configured to display informational
material, e.g., warnings, security information, advertising, or any
combination thereof.
[0131] In a preferred embodiment, the cameras 162 of the device or
system 180 are operably connected, e.g., by wire or IP
communication, to a data/power patch panel for quick
connection/disconnection into the device. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 18, the power patch panel 182 is to provide
power to the cameras 162. The data/power patch panel 182 also
provides operable connection of the cameras 162 to the digital
video recorder/network video recorder 186, and the power panel 184.
178 and 179 are data and power interconnectors for electronic
equipment, i.e. video, audio, fiber, data, etc. The digital video
recorder and/or network video recorder is installed to record video
from cameras (e.g., analog, digital, heat imaging camera, infrared,
megapixel and/or IP based).
[0132] The data/power patch panel 182 also provides connection to
the data card of the DVR, IP based cameras to the switch 190, NVR
to the switch 190, wifi/fiber/Cat5 remote communication of the unit
to the switch 190, and remote maintenance devices to the switch
190. The battery backup/surge protector 188 provides pass through
power and surge protection to the storage device (DVR and/or NVR)
186, digital and/or megapixel cameras 162, wifi radio with wifi
antenna 188, data switch 190 and climate control unit 26. In
certain embodiments, the device or system 180 further comprises a
DVR/NVR mounting platform to mount the server in the device. In
still additional embodiments, the system comprises a pan/tilt/zoom
camera for "live" review of coverage area.
[0133] As described above, it is contemplated that the housing,
viewing windows, and mounting platform(s), and any other part of
the device can be of any desired size or shape. In addition the
housing, viewing windows, and mounting platform(s), and any other
part of the device can be manufactured out of steel, aluminum,
plastic, or polycarbonite provided that the windows are large
enough to allow for substantially 360 degrees of viewing by the
camera array contained within the housing.
[0134] In certain embodiments, the device or system includes a
housing of any dimension as described in FIG. 1. In a preferred
embodiment, inside of the enclosure will be mounted a mounting
platform to include mounting devices, e.g., camera mounting
brackets, in a hanging position and/or a mounting platform to
include mounting devices, e.g., camera mounting brackets, in a post
position. In an additional embodiment, the housing comprises a
backboard configured to receive at least one of a patch panel
data/video/power panel, a power panel, additional spaces to include
data, power or video connections, or combinations thereof. In a
preferred embodiment, the camera mounting bracket is a universal
mounting post, which includes a fastener which is slidably or
adjustably affixed to the mounting platform(s), and a portion
configured to adjustably affix a camera. The purpose of mounting a
camera to the platform in a universal configuration is to optimize
coverage. In certain additional embodiments, a mounting shelf is
affixed within the housing to shelve a digital video recorder
and/or network video recorder, or other electronics (switches,
modems, routers, wireless equipment, etc.). In certain additional
embodiments, the device includes cable management components for
guiding the infrastructure cable within the housing.
[0135] In any of the embodiments described herein cable or wires
are used to operably connect the electronic components. For
example, in certain embodiments, video cables are employed to
interconnect the DVR/NVR and the cameras, e.g., directly (bypassing
the patch panel) and/or indirectly (passing through the patch panel
for quick connect/disconnect function). In addition, data cables
can be employed to interconnect any of the electronic components.
For example, data cables can be used to connect the DVR/NVR to
electronic switch(es), routers, wireless bridge, wireless radio,
cameras or the like.
[0136] In additional embodiments, the device or system comprises
power cables to make electric connection from the power panel
and/or transformer to the electric components directly (bypassing
the patch panel) and/or indirectly (passing the current through the
patch panel for quick disconnect.
[0137] In certain embodiments, the system is entirely housed in and
operably connected within the housing. In other embodiments,
certain components can be affixed or secured externally to or on
the housing but operably connected within the housing. Once all
components are installed the equipment is then connected together
with cabling: Video Patch Cords, Low Voltage Power Patch Cords,
Data Patch Cords. The components that can be operably connected in
any of the embodiments described herein include, e.g., a battery
backup/surge protector, a DVR/NVR, a camera power panel, a wireless
radio, network equipment, cameras, data/power patch panel, and
other accessories to the system.
[0138] As described above, cameras for use in any of the can be
analog or digital or IP based or megapixel. Depending on the focal
requirements of each installation, device or system could have any
combination of the cameras included. The more cameras the more
flexibility and coverage. In certain embodiments, video recording
is needed for the interface between the analog/digital cameras and
the user. The video recording device can be in the form of a DVR
(Digital Video Recorder) and/or NVR (Network Video Recorder) for
network based cameras IP and/or mega pixel. The device is scalable
to multi-terabyte in size which can give each unit sufficient
recording space for most any application. In certain additional
embodiments, networking connectivity is utilized for the interface
between the user and the device or system. The network interface
can come equipped as wireless, fiber optic and/or ethernet,
depending on network architecture needs. In additional embodiments,
the device or system includes a battery backup and/or surge
protector.
[0139] Power is always needed and solar power to the unit will
eliminate the need for wired power. Solar will give the ability to
install the unit anywhere without being limited by facilities.
Thus, in certain embodiments, the device or system comprises solar
panels operably connected to one or more rechargeable batteries for
powering the device or system. Multiple Camera types and Video
Recorders offer a multitude of configurations in one single device
or system.
[0140] The device or system 180 may also incorporate retrieval
logic. A user may retrieve images or video archived by using
retrieval logic. Retrieval logic may work in conjunction with I/O
devices or interfaces for the user to query the data store
containing the still images or video. Archiving logic archives the
images or video and the identifying information in such a way that
permits later retrieval of the images or video by use of a query
for the identifying information. Thus, the user may effectively and
efficiently query the data store with the identifying information
to retrieve the images or video. For example, a user may use
retrieval logic to query the database for a specific time and date,
and retrieval logic would return images or video corresponding to
the time or date queried. A user may also query the database with
the name of the input device that triggered archiving of the video
segment or images.
[0141] Moreover, if the device or system 180 used as an input
device, for example, analytics logic in combination with cameras, a
user may use retrieval logic to query the database for identifying
information regarding, for example, behavior of a subject captured
on video by the cameras. For example, if the analytics were
programmed to detect a subject loitering in a parking lot, once the
analytics detect the behavior, loitering, through analysis of the
video captured by camera, the analytics logic would transmit a
signal to detection logic, which in turn would cause archiving
logic to begin archiving the captured video. Archiving logic
archives the captured video with identifying information that would
identify the archived video as a loitering incident. Thus, a user
may later retrieve the video by use of retrieval logic. The user
would query the database for, for example, the term "loitering" and
the date, which would return all loitering incidents on that date.
Additional software programs for multiple or single purposes can be
added to the system upon architectural needs arise, examples
include but are not limited to, facial recognition, license plate
identification, behavioral patterns, etc. In addition the system
can work in concert with other data bases available to enhance
system abilities.
[0142] Retrieval logic may be configured with a set of search
filters so that a user may select filters to find a video segment
or image of interest to the user based on the selected filters.
Retrieval logic may also present to the user a still image or
thumbnail of each archived video segment so that the user may
efficiently sift through archived segments for the one of interest
to the user.
[0143] The device or system 180 may communicate with various other
devices and logics using other busses that are not illustrated
(e.g., PCIE, SATA, Infiniband, 1394, USB, Ethernet). The bus can be
of a variety of types including, but not limited to, a memory bus
or memory controller, a peripheral bus or external bus, a crossbar
switch, or a local bus. The local bus can be of varieties
including, but not limited to, an industrial standard architecture
(ISA) bus, a microchannel architecture (MCA) bus, an extended ISA
(EISA) bus, a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus, a
universal serial (USB) bus, and a small computer systems interface
(SCSI) bus.
[0144] The device or system 180 may interact with additional
input/output devices via I/O interfaces and I/O ports. Input/output
devices can include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a
microphone, a pointing and selection device, video cards, displays,
disks, and so on. The I/O ports can include but are not limited to,
serial ports, parallel ports, and USB ports. In one embodiment, I/O
ports may communicate with input devices via I/O interfaces using
known communication protocols such as Controller Area Network
(CAN), Modbus, ZigBee, Ethernet Global Data (EGD), SERCOS, and so
on.
[0145] The device or system 180 can operate in a network
environment and thus may be connected to network devices via I/O
interfaces, or the I/O ports. Through the network, system may be
logically connected to remote computers. The networks with which
system 180 may interact include, but are not limited to, a local
area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and other networks
such as the Internet. Network devices can connect to LAN
technologies including, but not limited to, fiber distributed data
interface (FDDI), copper distributed data interface (CDDI),
Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), token ring (IEEE 802.5), wireless computer
communication (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee
(IEEE 802.15.4) and so on. Similarly, network devices may have
cellular connectivity or may connect to WAN technologies including,
but not limited to, point to point links, circuit switching
networks like integrated services digital networks (ISDN), packet
switching networks, and digital subscriber lines (DSL). While
individual network types are described, it is to be appreciated
that communications via, over, or through a network may include
combinations and mixtures of communications. For example, a user
seeking to adjust cameras may make use of a 2.4 GHz communication
signal to see via a handheld device the view of any one of cameras.
The user may then adjust one or more of the cameras to a desired
position based on the user observing in the handheld device the
current view being received by the camera.
[0146] When device or system 180 is connected to remote computers
via the network, a user at a remote computer may access still
images or video captured by cameras and/or live images or the user
may access the archived images or video remotely via retrieval
logic which may be accessible via a user interface such as a web
browser at the remote computer. Further, connection to a network
may provide system with an internet connection where a user may
view camera views real time and archived images or video from
anywhere using a web browser. Thus, a user may be able to monitor
the surveillance area at a safe distance from the system. A user
may also use input devices such as a joystick to control the camera
pan, tilt, and zoom. Moreover, when system is connected to a
network, system may be made to send, for example, email or text
message to alert a remote user of a detected condition. System may
also be accessed remotely to, for example, determine the health of
the system, diagnose system failure, and so on. Such remote access
may be conditioned on the remote user being authenticated by the
use of a password. System while connected to a network may also
automatically receive software updates from authenticated
sources.
[0147] In still an additional aspect, the description provides a
method of surveying or monitoring simultaneously and in real-time a
substantially 360 degree area comprising the steps of providing a
surveillance device or system as described herein and a remote
display, wherein the device and the remote display are in computer
communication, supplying power to the same, and monitoring remotely
substantially 360 degrees of viewing area simultaneously.
[0148] The device and system as described herein provides an
all-in-one solution that offers flexibility and complete live and
recorded video coverage of any area that the unit is installed. The
device can be configured to offer full 360 degree coverage with
simultaneous wide angle and zoomed views, vertically and
horizontally from the device's mounted position. In addition, it
provides a system in which multiple views can be attained from any
configuration of angles or zoom requirements. Provides many devices
for many purposes to achieve the most complete 360 degree coverage
from its position. In addition, the Pan/Tilt/Zoom device can be
added for live viewing, and recording can be completed in multiple
terabytes locally. In additional situations a device may be added
externally for purposes of covering a requested area not in the
view of the mounted position.
[0149] The device or system as described herein can be installed in
any number of situations, including for example, the center of a
campus environment to achieve angles away from the building verses
on the building. One device or system will cover the same area as
many individual camera housings and devices, which are labor
intensive to install. Other areas that are well suited for use with
the described device or system include the center of a community
park, mall parking lot, city square, road intersect ion, airport
airfield, etc. In is also contemplated that the device or system as
described herein can be installed indoor, e.g., banks, lobbies,
etc. for monitoring of interior areas. Additional applications of
the device include as a means of displaying information by
printing, projecting or otherwise displaying material directly on
the outer surface of the device. In certain embodiment, the
information displayed on the surface of the device is advertising
material.
[0150] It is also contemplated that the device and system as
described herein can be integrated with other electronic utilities
currently in use, e.g., automatic teller machines, informational
kiosks, or the like, where the use of the utility acts as a trigger
event to initiate surveillance of a desired place or location.
[0151] The contents of all references, patents, pending patent
applications and published patents, cited throughout this
application are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
EQUIVALENTS
[0152] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to
ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many
equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described
herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the
following claims.
[0153] It is understood that the detailed examples and embodiments
described herein are given by way of example for illustrative
purposes only, and are in no way considered to be limiting to the
invention. Various modifications or changes in light thereof will
be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are included within
the spirit and purview of this application and are considered
within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the relative
quantities of the ingredients may be varied to optimize the desired
effects, additional ingredients may be added, and/or similar
ingredients may be substituted for one or more of the ingredients
described. Additional advantageous features and functionalities
associated with the systems, methods, and processes of the present
invention will be apparent from the appended claims. Moreover,
those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain
using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the
specific embodiments of the invention described herein. Such
equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the following
claims.
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